Hello Everyone,
I am about 30 days out from my actual separation date and I have yet to find a job. Since, I have had nothing but great experiences with the people I've met on ACP's Advisor Net, I thought I would reach out once again.
I completed my degree in Computer and Information Sciences in December of 2012 and began my Masters in Information Technology (Specialization in Project Management) in January of 2013. My AFSC(MOS) is 2W0X1 which doesn't allow for many opportunities in the civilian world (unless you know of explosive handlers out there), but I have spent the last few years in an administrative, IT Service Desk type position.
I am currently located in the North Carolina area and seeking something in the QA/Testing, Information Security, or Compliance/Auditing fields to begin my civilian career.
If anyone has any suggestions or knows of any openings, I would be extremely grateful.
Thanks for all you do!
Ben
Answers
Maybe try at Booz Hamilton, they do auditing worldwide but I don't know if they have an office in North Carolina. You might even have to travel for your job, if you'd like that. Besides that, what about a computer programming job? That's always in demand.
If you haven't been in the IT workforce for the last year or so, your resume is probably not saying the right things: required formats have changed. I can take a look at it.
LInked In is an important step, but even if you are just applying to advertised jobs (stick to indeed.com and federal government sites), the resume is crucial.
Ben, I too am from GE and can tell you we are very supportive of hiring veterans. You may find that the help desk idea is setting you back, considering you are working on your Master's. I agree you might consider targeting PM positions, instead. Feel free to PM me (or connect on LinkedIn - just tell me where you found me, so I'll Accept). If you don't already have a Mentor, you should request one - they can help in these areas, for sure.
-Heather
Ben,
Have you joined a Project Management professional association like PMI?http://www.pmi.org/
Many good jobs are not posted online so networking with project managers in the Charlotte area is a good start.
Most industries use IT so consider narrowing your choices to match your long term goals: government, healthcare, banking, insurance, manufacturing, and so forth. By selecting a target industry you can focus your attention on the 20 best employers nearest to were you want to live. You can also focus your understanding of this industry's need for project management professionals and ensure that they match your long term career goals.
Remember, the goal is not to get a job. You won't last in a job that does not meet your needs. The goal is to get a good job that meets all of your needs.
Good Luck!
Walt
Ben,
Go here: http://www.ge.com/careers/opportunities
I currently work for GE Hitachi in Wilmington, NC. GE is very veteran friendly. There are many opportunities in NC currently. Good luck.
Adam
Ben, I was also going to suggest that you set up a profile on LinkedIn. Many large corporations post open positions there. In addition, you can post your qualifications on Linkedin and recruiters can find you there. Be sure to link to other LinkedIn members that know you and can speak to your skills and qualifications.
Large corporations also post job openings on their websites before they post on public sites. Consider going on to these sites on a regular basis. On many sites you can set up your profile and openings that meet your skillset will be emailed to as they are posted. Some jobs can be work at home so don't limit your search to companies located in your geographical location.
One other item, be sure to use the key words that the job opening ad lists. Many applicatoins/resumes are filtered electronically and not read by the recruiter/hiring manager unless they make through this filter. This means that you may have to customize your resume each time (with small tweaks).
Audrey
Ben,
Raleigh is a huge IT area and not that far from you. I see postings from there daily. If you are on LinkedIn check these out based on your interests:
Take care,
Pete
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